Time to return to the screen: Movies you missed in 2024

2024 delivered a diverse cinematic landscape, with some hidden gems overshadowed by bigger releases. This list spotlights ten underrated films deserving of your attention.

Table of Contents

• Late Night with the Devil
• Bad Boys: Ride or Die
• Blink Twice
• Monkey Man
• The Beekeeper
• Trap
• Juror No. 2
• The Wild Robot
• It's What's Inside
• Kinds of Kindness
• Why Watch These Films?

Late Night with the Devil

This horror film, directed by Cameron and Colin Cairnes, stands out with its unique 1970s talk show aesthetic. It's not just a scare-fest; it's a thoughtful exploration of fear, group psychology, and the manipulative power of media, showcasing how modern technology can shape our consciousness. The plot centers on a failing late-night host who, grappling with grief, attempts a ratings-boosting occult-themed episode.

Bad Boys: Ride or Die

The fourth installment of the beloved Bad Boys franchise reunites Will Smith and Martin Lawrence as detectives Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett. This time, they confront a dangerous crime syndicate and uncover corruption within the Miami PD, forcing them to operate outside the law. Action-packed, humorous, and thrilling, it's a worthy addition to the series, fueling speculation about a fifth film.

Blink Twice

Zoë Kravitz's directorial debut, Blink Twice, is a psychological thriller. Frida, a waitress, sets her sights on tech mogul Slater King, infiltrating his world and uncovering dangerous secrets on his private island. Starring Channing Tatum, Naomi Ackie, and Haley Joel Osment, the film has drawn comparisons to real-life controversies, though no direct connections are confirmed.

Monkey Man

Dev Patel's directorial and starring debut, Monkey Man, is an action thriller set in a Mumbai-esque Indian city. Kid, nicknamed "Monkey Man," fights in underground arenas before his mother's murder propels him on a mission to dismantle the city's criminal underworld. The film blends action with sociopolitical commentary to powerful effect.

The Beekeeper

Former secret agent Adam Clay (Jason Statham) leads a peaceful life raising bees until his friend's suicide, caused by online scammers, forces him back into his dangerous past. Written by Kurt Wimmer (Equilibrium) and boasting a $40 million budget, this action film showcases Statham's dedication with his performance of many of the stunts.

Trap

M. Night Shyamalan delivers another suspenseful thriller, Trap, starring Josh Hartnett. A firefighter takes his daughter to a concert, only to discover it's a trap set to capture a dangerous criminal. Shyamalan's signature cinematography, storytelling, and sound design create a gripping atmosphere.

Juror No. 2

Directed by Clint Eastwood and starring Nicholas Hoult, Juror No. 2 is a legal thriller. Justin Kemp, a juror in a murder trial, is forced to confront a devastating secret from his past – a hit-and-run he believes involved a deer, not a person – that directly links him to the crime. He faces a moral dilemma: expose himself or let an innocent person be convicted.

The Wild Robot

This animated film, based on Peter Brown's novel, follows Roz, a robot stranded on a deserted island. Roz learns to survive and interact with the island's wildlife, eventually becoming part of the ecosystem. The film beautifully explores the intersection of technology and nature, prompting reflection on humanity's definition. Its unique animation style is a highlight.

It's What's Inside

Greg Jardin's sci-fi thriller, It's What's Inside, blends comedy, mystery, and horror. A group of friends at a wedding uses a consciousness-swapping device, leading to unexpected and dangerous consequences. The film explores identity and relationships in the digital age.

Kinds of Kindness

Yorgos Lanthimos (The Lobster, Poor Things) presents a triptych film exploring human relationships, morality, and the surreal. Three interconnected stories follow: an office worker who takes control of his life after his boss's death; a man whose wife returns as a changed person; and a sex cult searching for a girl who can resurrect the dead.

Why You Should Watch These Films

These films offer more than just entertainment; they provide thought-provoking narratives, unexpected twists, and fresh perspectives on familiar themes. They are a testament to the fact that cinematic gems can be found beyond the mainstream.